Accra: Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, has expressed strong support for the United States government's decision to crack down on birth tourism, a practice he deems inappropriate and lacking in patriotism, especially when undertaken by public officials. His remarks follow the US Department of State's announcement of new measures aimed at preventing the misuse of visitor visas for the purpose of giving birth in the US to secure citizenship for newborns.
According to Ghana Web, the US Department of State issued a statement on June 10, 2026, emphasizing its commitment to protecting the integrity of US citizenship by targeting illegal birth tourism operations. The statement, part of efforts under the Trump administration, clarified that obtaining a visitor visa to facilitate birth tourism is prohibited, reinforcing that a US visa is a privilege, not a right. The department pledged to dismantle birth tourism networks globally and hold accountable those exploiting the system.
Ras Mubarak, in a Facebook post dated June 10, 2026, acknowledged the US authorities' ability to identify individuals who travel primarily for securing citizenship for their children through birth. He questioned the rationale behind African public officials and political leaders seeking foreign citizenship for their offspring, despite their successful careers on the continent.
Mubarak further criticized the lack of confidence some political figures display in African nations, asserting that such behavior indicates a deficiency in patriotism and principle. Sharing his personal experience, he proudly noted that all six of his children were born in Ghana, including in public hospitals, and highlighted his commitment to serving the public interest over personal convenience.
He concluded by advocating for a new generation of leaders who prioritize national interests and uphold principles of patriotism. Mubarak emphasized that while private individuals may choose to have children abroad, it is inappropriate for public officials, who are funded by taxpayers, to do so.